The President of the United Nations General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, regrets the decision of the United States to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The President of the General Assembly underscores the role played by UNESCO in building peaceful, just and equitable societies through
education, sciences, culture and communication. He notes that the United States helped to create UNESCO in 1945, and has since used its voice and role, as a member, to contribute to initiatives that have shaped the world. The President of the General Assembly is concerned that the decision by the United States to withdraw could have adverse impacts upon the important work of UNESCO.
The President of the General Assembly emphasizes the crucial role played by the United States in multilateral cooperation, and stresses the need for continued engagement in the work of UNESCO.
Finally, the President of the General Assembly recalls the overarching goal of the United Nations and its entities, which is to promote peace, development and human rights, and to improve the everyday lives of people around the world. Given that the stakes for peace have never been so high, the President of the General Assembly affirms that cooperation, dialogue and partnerships are more important than ever. He looks forward to engaging with both UNESCO and the United States in working towards this common goal throughout the 72nd Session.
Brenden Varma, Spokesperson for the President of the General Assembly